To the seasons of life
Benjamin Franklin started the post office in both Canada and the United States. His particular genius and curiosity were driven in some are by his escapes.
Formative to the Constitution of the United States Franklin’s for the individual can be said to have been one of the main drivers of the 200-year-old experiment in self-government known as United States Constitution.
So thank you, Ben Franklin I can only imagine…
Oh, it’s all about dark matter and dark energy. What’s going on here? Maybe the 7th heaven is the throne of God and some of these lower heavens are more than just myth.
The “search the landfills” controversy in Manitoba, Canada, is a significant and painful issue surrounding the missing remains of murdered Indigenous women.
The controversy centers on the Prairie Green Landfill north of Winnipeg, where the remains of several Indigenous women, victims of serial killer Jeremy Skibicki, are believed to have been dumped. * The Victims: The remains of Morgan Harris and Marcedes Myran are believed to be in the landfill. A third victim, Rebecca Contois, had partial remains found at a different landfill, and the remains of a fourth victim, an unidentified woman known as Mashkode Bizhiki’ikwe (Buffalo Woman), have not been found. * Initial Refusal: Family members and Indigenous leaders advocated strongly and publicly for a search of the Prairie Green Landfill. However, the provincial government at the time, and the Winnipeg police, initially refused to conduct a full search, citing safety concerns due to hazardous materials (like asbestos) and the high cost and complexity of sifting through massive amounts of toxic debris. * Political Shift and Search: The refusal was met with outrage and became a major issue in the 2023 Manitoba provincial election. The New Democratic Party, led by Wab Kinew, campaigned on a promise to fund the search if elected. After winning, the new provincial government, along with the federal government, committed tens of millions of dollars to the search effort. * The Search Begins: The humanitarian search began in December 2024. In the following months, possible human remains were found and one set was identified as belonging to Morgan Harris. The search for Marcedes Myran continues. This development, while bringing grief, provided validation for the families’ tireless fight.
The entire controversy is a microcosm of the systemic issue of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People (MMIWG2S+) in Canada, and the perceived systemic failure by police and government to adequately investigate and prioritize these cases.
Feeling safe is a fundamental right. While no single set of tips can guarantee safety, practicing situational awareness and setting boundaries are key.Increase Awareness and Trust Your Intuition * Be Alert: Limit distractions like excessive phone use. Keep your head up, remain alert, and pay attention to your surroundings—who is around you, and what behavior seems out of place? * Trust Your Gut: Your “sixth sense” or intuition is a powerful self-defense tool. If a person, place, or situation feels wrong or unsafe, leave immediately. It is never rude to prioritize your safety. * Project Confidence: Walk with purpose and confidence, and make eye contact. Predators often target those who appear distracted or vulnerable.Planning and Technology *
When going out, let a trusted person know your itinerary, including who you’re with, where you are going, and approximately when you expect to be home. Check in with them when you arrive and leave. * Share Your Location: Use your smartphone’s features to ping or share your real-time location with trusted friends or family. * Self-Defense Tools: Consider carrying a personal safety alarm or whistle. The sound is disorienting to an attacker and draws attention. * In Transit: When walking, stick to well-lit, busy streets. If driving, keep your doors locked and look inside your car, especially the back seat, before getting in.
Practice asserting your boundaries with firm body language and a clear voice. You have the right to refuse anything that makes you uncomfortable, whether it’s unwanted attention or pressure to go somewhere.
If you’re out with friends, stick together. Watch your drinks at all times, or use protective covers. If you feel unsafe or notice an escalation, immediately seek help from a bartender, bouncer, or staff member.
Trusted friends are a great value
Garcia street Merritt BC
The Nicola River was the quiet partner draining the Nicola Valley to the coast from the conjuction of the Coldwater bad boy of 2021. The enterence to the city from the north end includes two highways shared with the Nicola river. A dance partner that sustained a lot of damage that took years to repair…
Tributary of Thompson River
is an important tributary to the Thompson River in south-central British Columbia. The section from the outlet of Nicola Lake to its confluence with the Thompson River near Spences Bridge covers a distance of approximately 100 kilometers.Here is some general information about the river’s flow and levels in this stretch:General Flow Characteristics * Regulation: The flow out of Nicola Lake is regulated by a storage dam, which influences the river’s initial discharge. * Tributary Influence: As the river flows towards the Thompson, it is significantly augmented by major tributaries, most notably the Coldwater River (near Merritt) and Spius Creek. These tributaries, particularly the Coldwater River, contribute large volumes of water, especially during spring melt. * Annual Pattern: Like many interior BC rivers, the Nicola River experiences a typical pattern: * Maximum Flows (Peak Flows): Generally occur in the late spring or early summer (May/June) due to snowmelt, and are the basis for flood events. * Minimum Flows (Low Flows): Typically occur in the late summer, fall, and winter. Low flows can be a critical concern for fish, particularly salmon, due to reduced habitat and increased water temperatures. Drought conditions can exacerbate these low-flow periods.Flow Rate DataExact, long-term historical maximum, minimum, and annual mean flows vary considerably along the river and depend on the specific monitoring station (hydrometric station) and the period of record. However, some data points are available for reference: * Near the Outlet of Nicola Lake: The drainage area is approximately 2,990 \text{ km}^2. *
The total drainage area of the Nicola River is approximately 7,670 \text{ km}^2. The discharge here is much greater than at the lake outlet due to the contributions of major tributaries. * One study mentions a designated (daily) flow of 380 \text{ m}^3/\text{s} at the downstream limit of a study area, which indicates the scale of potential high flows near the confluence. *
Photo KDG returning Salmon circa September 2025
For salmon management, thresholds like the 20\% Mean Annual Discharge (MAD) and 10\% MAD are used to indicate flows below which fish may be negatively impacted. For a station on the Nicola River (near Nicola), the 20\% MAD was noted as 1.4 \text{ m}^3/\text{s} and the 10\% MAD as 0.678 \text{ m}^3/\text{s}.Maximum and Minimum Levels * Maximum: The Nicola River has a history of significant flood events. The November 2021 flood, for example, was described as a 200-year flood event, which severely impacted the river’s channel and surrounding communities like Merritt.
Low water levels are a recurring environmental concern, especially in the late summer and early fall, driven by both natural climate cycles and water abstraction for uses like agricultural irrigation.For the most precise and up-to-date data on daily and historical maximum/minimum levels and flows, it is best to consult the Environment and Climate Change Canada’s Water Survey of Canada or the British Columbia River Forecast Centre, which maintain continuous monitoring stations (like 08\text{LG}065 at the Outlet of Nicola Lake and 08\text{LG}070 south of Shackan).
The Coldwater River flooded very quickly and did a lot of damage in November of 2021. It joined the Nicola River at the confluence of highway 8 and continued to do its contribution to a 200 year flash flooding that did extensive damage to the coquihalla highway in many places in the province. Not many lives were lost, however economic damage was tremendous.
Ostriches are raised for meat, feathers and eggs and are commercial. However these bunch of hostages in the news of late were going away from that and we’re used for tourism. Coming endeared to some keepers. Wouldn’t have been, if it was just for meat.
This is a very serious condition that affects foul and gets into people it can be fatal to people and the closer they are the bigger population areas and more of a risk.
The cull that was ordered by the authorities has been stayed and there may be a presentation between the parties at the Supreme Court of Canada and there is a controversy over testing the remaining birds, 300 out of a possible 450 that had contacted the avian flu and are under scrutiny.
The virus involved is H5N1, and could be a particularly concern at the start of the flu season and respiratory illness that could accompany it.
New show…
September and into October the Nicola Valley Community Arts council’s Art Center is putting on a western cowboy type theme in the show that this open now.
British Columbia
Farmers’ Markets in British Columbia and Canada
While an exact, single number for all of Canada is not readily available, data from the BC Association of Farmers’ Markets (BCAFM) indicates a robust and growing market scene in British Columbia. As of recent studies, there are over 145 farmers’ markets across British Columbia.
Effect on Farmgate Price
Farmers’ markets have a significant and positive effect on the “farmgate price,” which is the price a farmer receives for their product at the farm gate, before any processing or distribution costs. Here’s how:
* Direct-to-Consumer Sales: By selling directly to consumers, farmers eliminate the need for intermediaries such as wholesalers, distributors, and grocery retailers. This allows them to capture a much larger portion of the final retail price, often receiving 100% of the price paid by the customer.
* Pricing Flexibility: Unlike a large grocery chain with standardized pricing, farmers at a market have the flexibility to set their own prices based on a variety of factors, including the quality of their product, the cost of production (e.g., whether it’s organic), and the local demand.
* Economic Impact: A 2023 study by the BCAFM found that member markets in British Columbia generated $155.3 million in direct sales. This revenue goes straight to local farmers and food producers, contributing to a substantial economic impact on the local community. Farmers who sell directly are also more likely to patronize other local businesses, creating a positive multiplier effect.
Disposition of Food
Farmers’ markets change the “disposition” of food by influencing its distribution and what happens to unsold products.
* Alternative Distribution Channel: Farmers’ markets provide a vital alternative to the conventional food supply chain. This is particularly beneficial for small-scale farmers who may find it difficult to meet the high volume and standardization requirements of large retailers. Markets also foster a direct relationship between producers and consumers.
* Community-Based Programs: Many farmers’ markets, such as the ones in Vancouver, have “Donation Station” programs. At the end of a market day, farmers and vendors can donate any unsold fresh produce, which is then distributed to local food banks, community food pantries, schools, and other programs that support low-income and food-insecure individuals.
* Reduced Food Waste: Farmers have more control over their inventory and can bring only what they believe they can sell. While some food may still go unsold, the direct sales model and donation programs help to minimize waste compared to the large-scale distribution system, where a single rejected shipment can result in a massive loss. Unsold produce can also be used for animal feed or composted.
There is a very good place to get the mileage to destinations when stopping in Merritt. The downtown tourist info Center 2202 Voght st is a convenience to employ.
A signpost with distances to several locations, including some in British Columbia and one in Alberta, Canada, as well as Bellingham in the United States. It looks like a fun and creative landmark, possibly in a park or a private yard.
The signpost indicates the following distances:
* West:
* Spences Bridge: 65 km
* Tofino: 550 km
* Victoria: 350 km
* Whistler: 330 km
* Vancouver: 270 km
* Haida Gwaii: 1500 km
* East:
* Hope: 120 km
* Calgary, Alta: 700 km
* Cranbrook: 650 km
* Trail: 435 km
* Osoyoos: 200 km
* Kelowna: 130 km
* Princeton: 90 km
* South:
* Bellingham, USA: 240 km
Based on the sign’s locations and distances, the signpost is likely located somewhere near Merritt, British Columbia, as this would be a plausible central point for these destinations.
The kilometers to destination are rounded off to 10 s making them less provoking to remember. EG Merritt to Calgary 700 KM from 704.
The cool shade of lawn and trees await stoppers at the downtown tourist information center also known as the Bailey house in Merritt, BC.
Cibc in a report has indicated that Canadians are optimistic even though there’s adversity out there and at least 68% of them have made progress towards their goals in the last year.
The world demand for paper products is substantial and constantly evolving, influenced by factors like economic growth, technological advancements, and environmental awareness. While digitalization has reduced the demand for some paper types (like newsprint), the need for packaging paper and board has significantly increased due to the growth of e-commerce and the demand for sustainable packaging solutions. Specialty papers for various industrial and consumer applications also contribute to the overall demand.
The increasing global demand for paper products has significant implications for recycling and garbage disposal:
Impact on Recycling:
* Increased Need for Recycling: Higher demand necessitates a greater supply of raw materials. Recycling paper helps to meet this demand by providing a secondary source of fiber, reducing the pressure on virgin forests.
* Economic Viability of Recycling: A strong demand for paper products, especially those made with recycled content, makes paper recycling more economically viable. This encourages investment in recycling infrastructure and technologies.
* Quality Requirements: As the applications of recycled paper expand, there’s an increasing need for high-quality recycled fibers. This puts pressure on improving collection, sorting, and processing technologies to minimize contamination and enhance the quality of recovered paper.
* Circular Economy: Increased paper demand reinforces the importance of a circular economy model where paper is collected, recycled, and reused multiple times, minimizing waste and resource consumption.
Impact on Garbage Disposal:
* Reduced Landfill Waste: Recycling paper significantly reduces the amount of paper waste that ends up in landfills. Paper is a major component of municipal solid waste, and diverting it through recycling conserves valuable landfill space. For example, recycling one ton of paper can save approximately 3.3 cubic yards of landfill space.
* Lower Greenhouse Gas Emissions: When paper decomposes in landfills, it releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Recycling paper avoids this decomposition process, thus reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, producing paper from recycled fibers generally requires less energy than producing it from virgin wood pulp, further lowering emissions.
* Decreased Incineration: In regions where waste is incinerated, increased paper recycling can reduce the volume of waste sent to incinerators. While incineration can recover energy, it also produces air pollutants and ash that require disposal.
* Resource Conservation: By recycling paper, the demand for virgin wood pulp decreases, leading to the conservation of forests, water, and energy resources used in the papermaking process. This indirectly reduces the environmental burden associated with logging, transportation, and manufacturing, which can have broader impacts on waste generation and disposal in those related industries.
In summary, the world’s demand for paper products has a direct and significant impact on recycling and garbage disposal. Increased demand necessitates more efficient and widespread recycling systems to reduce reliance on virgin resources and minimize the amount of paper waste ending up in landfills or being incinerated. A robust recycling infrastructure not only helps manage waste but also contributes to a more sustainable and circular use of paper resources.
Two can do more than twice the amount as one alone can do…
So, long as they are pulling in the same direction…
To maximize production through teamwork and division of labor, it’s essential to clearly define roles and responsibilities based on individual strengths and skills. Encourage open communication among team members to foster collaboration and problem-solving. Utilize project management tools to organize tasks effectively and monitor progress, ensuring that everyone stays aligned with project goals. Regularly review and adjust workflows to identify bottlenecks, allowing teams to optimize processes and improve efficiency. Additionally, promote a culture of trust and respect, which enhances motivation and accountability, ultimately leading to higher productivity levels.
Hey Merit what do you say?
Kevin Griffiths
percypaschal
The Proprietor Review 